Normally books IN water don’t mix, but books about water? Books near water? That has been a winning combination forever, as Baltimore’s National Aquarium and Enoch Pratt Free Library know. The two institutions announced the return of the Read to Reef book club for its Spring 2025 season this March, and it’s sure to go swimmingly!
The program will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2026, its mission for the last decade being to ignite children’s passion for reading while surrounding them with the wonders of the aquatic world.
From March 1 through March 31, Baltimore-area families with children in fifth grade or younger can pick up a free Read to Reef bookmark (while supplies last) using their library card at any Enoch Pratt Free Library branch. After they read any five aquatic or conservation-themed books from the Spring 2025 Read to Reef booklist, the families can redeem the code on their bookmark online for free admission to the Aquarium for up to four guests. Families can then redeem their bookmarks at the Aquarium for admission through June 15, 2025, giving plenty of time for them to plan their visits.
The Reed to Reef booklist for Spring 2025 includes a selection of aquatic adventures and conservation stories geared towards children of all ages and reading levels. There are colorful picture books and engaging non-fiction books, with the hope that the wide variety of titles will appeal to budding water conservationists of all ages and reading skills.
“The Read to Reef program is about more than just books and visits to the Aquarium,” said Sarah Doccolo, community programs manager at the National Aquarium. “It’s a way for families to spend time together, learn something new, and share the excitement of exploring. We hope every story inspires families to care for our blue planet.”
Read to Reef began in 2016, and since then has empowered more than 22,000 young Baltimore-area readers to dive into 114,000 books, swimming through the pages of the stories, and then sailing through the doors of the National Aquarium free of charge via the 83,775 free tickets provided.
“Programs like Read to Reef embody the spirit of partnership in Baltimore,” said Chad Helton, president and CEO of the Enoch Pratt Free Library. “Together, we’re opening doors for children and families to discover the beauty of reading and the importance of ocean conservation. This program brings two great organizations together while encouraging young minds to learn, explore, and dream big.”
